The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly criticized the recent 40% hike in telecom tariffs approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), describing it as a calculated attempt by the government to undermine freedoms of expression and limit youth participation in governance.

The tariff Increase, which affects phone calls, SMS, and data bundles, comes at a time when inflation is soaring at 39.93% and Nigerians are already grappling with severe economic hardships. HURIWA viewed this decision as not only insensitive but also a direct affront to the enjoyment of expanded civic space and an effort to stifle the voices of young Nigerians who rely on affordable telecommunications to engage in public discourse and hold leaders accountable.

HURIWA asserted that the government, having weaponized poverty to subdue the masses, is now leveraging exorbitant communication costs to muzzle the vibrant voices of Nigerian youths. By making it increasingly difficult for young people to afford data and access social media platforms, the government appears intent on limiting their capacity to exercise fundamental freedoms of speech and expression.

?While governments in progressive nations are subsidizing telecommunications to enhance connectivity and civic engagement, Nigeria is taking a regressive step by imposing heavy financial burdens on its citizens, particularly the youth,? HURIWA stated.

The association pointed out that affordable telecommunications are essential for youths to express themselves, participate in governance, and access educational and entrepreneurial opportunities. The deliberate economic exclusion created by these hikes could deepen the digital divide and further marginalize millions of Nigerians.

HURIWA lamented that the tariff increase would significantly curtail the use of social media, a vital tool for civic engagement, accountability, and grassroots mobilization. Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and WhatsApp have been pivotal for young Nigerians to voice their concerns, campaign for social justice, and advocate for systemic reforms.

?This is not just an attack on the affordability of telecom services but a direct strike at the heart of democracy,? HURIWA said. ?By making access to communication tools prohibitively expensive, the government Is attempting to shrink the civic space and silence dissent.?

The association also noted the economic implications of the tariff hike, particularly for small businesses, startups, and digital entrepreneurs who depend on affordable data and telecommunication services to thrive. The increase could stifle innovation and undermine Nigeria?s growing digital economy, which contributed 16.36% to the GDP by mid-2024.

HURIWA highlighted the stark contrast between Nigeria?s approach and global best practices, where governments actively invest in digital infrastructure and subsidize data costs to empower citizens. Countries such as India, Kenya, and South Korea have implemented measures to make internet access more affordable, recognizing its importance in fostering inclusive growth and democratic participation.

?In Nigeria, however, the government appears more interested in enriching telecom operators than in empowering its citizens,? HURIWA said.

HURIWA called on the Nigerian government and the NCC to immediately reverse the tariff hike and consider subsidizing data and telecom services, especially for students and low-income households. The association emphasized that affordable telecommunications are not a luxury but a necessity in the modern world.

?Access to communication is a fundamental right in today?s digital age. The government must prioritize the welfare of its citizens over the profits of telecom companies,? HURIWA stated.

HURIWA also appealed to international organizations, civil society groups, and tech companies to advocate for policies that ensure affordable internet access for Nigerians. The association urged telecom operators to prioritize corporate social responsibility and consider the socio-economic realities of their customers when making pricing decisions.

HURIWA concluded by urging the government to embrace digital inclusion as a cornerstone of national development. ?The youth are not the enemy,? the association said. ?They are the future of Nigeria, and their voices must be amplified, not silenced. The government must invest in policies and programs that empower young people to participate actively in governance and contribute to nation-building.?

With millions of Nigerians relying on affordable telecom services for their daily lives, HURIWA emphasized that the tariff hike is a step in the wrong direction. The association called on the government to listen to the people and act in their best interest by ensuring that telecommunications remain accessible and affordable for all.

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